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via Getty

via Getty

LeBron James is the definition of long-lasting success. Apart from consecutive record-breaking seasons, his endurance remains the central focus of his legacy. Despite two decades in the most elite level of competition, he continues to defy all odds and dominate the sport. The King‘s steady and reliable performances made him the highest-scoring player in NBA history last season. Additionally, he yielded a prime-like stat line of 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in ‘22-’23 season – at the age of 38! 

Along with fans worldwide, superstars from other sports like Tom Brady, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo have also shown their admiration for LeBron’s sustained excellence. 

Fans grappling with time and a bittersweet Truth

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Shannon Sharpe summarized it perfectly“Nobody has ever been in their peak, regardless of sport, as long as this man (LeBron) has been in his peak.” Every year, fans wonder if this is the season where LeBron’s game will show a drop-off. Every year, they’re proven wrong.

Unfortunately, age does have a tendency of catching up. Thinking of that prospect, however, is rather sad for fans who have seen the King dominate the hardwood for over two decades. While fans are uncertain if they want to see James retire, a recent tweet suggests that people do not deny the inevitable.

One user wrote, “We’re losing time.. he’s entering Year 21 next season

LeBron is coming off a torn tendon in his 21st season. In fact, he played through an injury in the playoffs.

After the playoffs exit in the recent season, James radiated his uncertainty regarding his presence as a player in the league. 

The King has overtly showcased his desire to play on the same team alongside his son, Bronny. 

The Lakers and James agreed on a contract extension until the ‘24-’25 season. But Bronny will be eligible for the draft of 2024. This means LeBron is driven to keep himself available until the end of the ‘25 season. Whether he will choose to retire with his hometown team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, is another story. 

LeBron is the only active player from his draft class of 2003. He is also the oldest player among the active players in the league. 

Apart from shattering records considered unbreakable, LeBron has served as the face of the NBA for the longest time. It will be an emotional moment whenever he decides to hang it up.

LeBron is known to spend approximately $1.5 million every year to keep himself in proper shape. 

LeBron James and the Lakers in ’23-’24 Season

It’s tough to face the fact that LeBron James is getting older. Of course, he had a historic season last year. But if he wants another chance at winning it all, he knows he can’t do it alone. The Lakers’ task this off-season was finding the right players to support and work well with LeBron and AD. 

USA Today via Reuters

Along with extending LeBron’s contract, the Lakers re-signed Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell, their star guards. They also brought back Hachimura, known for performing well under pressure, and added reliable role players like Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish, and the athletic Jaxson Hayes.

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As for rookies, the Lakers signed Max Lewis and Jalen Hood-Schifino, who have shown great scoring ability, athleticism, and defensive skills. The team now has a strong mix of experienced and promising players entering the season.

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Can this revamped version of the Los Angeles Lakers propel LeBron James to achieve another historic feat in his incredible NBA career?

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